Five members of a San Jose, California family that ran an unlicensed nursing home have been arrested for severe nursing home abuse issues including physically abusing and not properly feeding and bathing the mentally disabled residents in their care.

Police report that the residents were beaten, malnourished, rarely bathed, and not allowed to use toilet paper. Their living conditions included no running water, spoiled food, and feces littered the floor caused by dozens of likewise neglected dogs.

More than a dozen residents were rescued and are now in protective custody. However, police think there may be more victims and are asking anyone with information to contact Det. Monica De La Cerda of the San Jose Police Department at (408) 277-3700.

The more than 20 dogs found on the premises have also been rescued.

The five accused abusers face up to 18 years in prison for felony charges including dependent adult abuse and animal neglect.

Horrific tales of nursing home abuse throughout our country remind us that we need to be vigilant about reporting any suspicions we have of abuse or neglect to the authorities. If you or a family member was abused we also encourage you to contact a nursing home abuse attorney.